International Players to Keep an Eye on in World Championships: Part I

The FIBA World Championships start in Turkey this Saturday, August 28th.  This is a great chance to watch some good basketball again before the season starts, but also to watch some of  the foreign talent.  It was in this kind of tournament that Spanish sensation Ricky Rubio caught the eye of many Americans in 2008.

So who should you be keeping an eye on this time around?

Das Büt!

1. Tibor Pleiss, C, Germany

Pleiss was the 31st pick in this year's draft, and his rights are currently held by the Oklahoma City Thunder.  Pleiss is a very long player, although he'll need some time to adjust to the NBA game if/when he comes over.  He's got a nice offensive arsenal, but is probably more comfortable as a face up player than down low.  He could be a good replacement for Nenad Krstic in a few years.

I did not photoshop "COCK" on his jersey

2. Nemanja Bjelica, G/F, Serbia

Bjelica is another player drafted this year, at 35th, and his rights are held by the Minnesota Timberwolves.  Bjelica is essentially a 6'10 point guard, able to run the floor and a team well.  He is pretty turnover prone and has only average athleticism, but unlike another tall foreigner that tried to play Point Guard in the NBA (Boris Diaw) he can't really score like a big man.  It remains to be seen if he'll ever come to the NBA, as he just signed a 5 year contract internationally.

Team Edward

3. Tiago Splitter, PF/C, Brazil

Splitter is my dark horse favorite for Rookie of the Year, as he's finally coming over to the NBA (The Spurs have held his rights for 3 years).  For many people this tournament will be their first look at Splitter and I think they'll be impressed.  He is excellent as low post player, showing advanced footwork and post moves.  His defensive skills are also superb, and he could end up being the most integral piece in San Antonio's attempt to get one last Championship before Duncan retires.  He's certainly Brazil's best hope of winning in the World Championships.

Dude needs to be introduced to Cheeseburgers

4. Ante Tomic, C, Croatia

Tomic was a 2nd round pick by the Jazz in 2008, and he's been playing in Europe since.  He's a very impressive scorer, using a lot of finesse around the basket.  Finesse is a great word for Tomic, because although he's 7'2, he's only probably around 230 lbs, which will be a big detriment if he ever comes to the NBA.  While Tomic is a great offensive player, his defense is extremely subpar, partly due to his strength, but also due to his seeming lack of interest.

Who is thees Tina Fey person?

5. Timofey Mozgov, C, Russia

Another player coming to the NBA this year (New York), Mozgov will be on display in Europe.  Mozgov's style of play seemingly should go perfectly in Mike D'Antoni's system, as he excels at running the floor, playing in Pick and Roll situations.  His defense is iffy, as he's athletic enough to make a difference, but the experience is not there. Again, perfect for Mike D'Antoni.

Part 2 will be up Friday.